Passengers at Gomti Nagar Railway Station in Lucknow are in for a whole new travel experience as the station becomes Uttar Pradesh’s first privately-managed rail hub. The makeover promises airport-like food courts, modern amenities, and cleaner surroundings, setting a new benchmark for Indian Railways.
What’s Changing?
Under the Integrated Station Facility Management System (ISFMS), private firms will handle services like:
Cleanliness & crowd management
Catering & food courts
Parking facilities
Passenger assistance
However, train operations, ticketing, and security will remain under Indian Railways’ control.
Private operators will manage the station for nine years (extendable to 12 years), sharing 15% of revenue with RLDA while the rest stays with Indian Railways.
A Station That Feels Like an Airport
With the new system in place, passengers can expect:
●Organised food courts with multiple dining options
●Solar-powered infrastructure
●Digital display boards
●Escalators & elevators for easy access
●Modern waiting lounges & commercial spaces
Why Gomti Nagar?
Handling 76 trains daily across six platforms, Gomti Nagar plays a vital role in eastern Uttar Pradesh’s rail network, connecting key cities like Gorakhpur, Chhapra, and Barauni.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi had already inaugurated its redeveloped version, but this public-private partnership is expected to further raise passenger comfort and operational efficiency.
A Model for the Future?
Along with Chandigarh Railway Station, Gomti Nagar is a pilot project for this model. If successful, more stations across India could soon adopt private management for better passenger services.
The Debate
While experts welcome the efficiency boost, concerns remain about higher service charges and the need for transparency in private management.
Still, Gomti Nagar is now being viewed as a game-changer in Indian Railways, blending public operations with private efficiency to give passengers a world-class experience.
